EQUINE
THERAPY.
I wrote an article a number of years ago, on Mary Howe and how she and her horses were making a difference helping people through equine therapy. Several months after the story ran, I received a call from a lady who had read the piece and had taken her daughter to the farm to see if Mary and her family of horses could help. The girl had lost her father a few years earlier and struggled to find her way. The mom told me the horses were making a difference, and she wanted to thank me for telling the story. I knew then that Mary and I would cross paths again. I didn't know how or when, but I just knew. You see, Mary is this ball of positive energy that seems to know no bounds. Her selfcommitment to helping others is a lifelong obsession that, in the short time I have come to know her, has helped folks from all over. I think for her, helping others is part of Mary's personal healing process. Her journey is based on a "Community of Healing." A couple of months ago Mary and I reconnected and picked up right where we left off, kind of like a couple of old spirits passing on the trail of life. Like always, Mary had an idea in her head, and of course, she was determined to make it a reality. As I said earlier, Mary was taking the concept of a "Community of Healing" to a higher level. Over the years Mary had established some significant relationships with folks all over southern Ontario who were in their way helping others. They all had some connection back to Sonflower Stables, equine therapy and Mary's work. Her goal was to have Chris Atkins (best cameraman in the business) and myself interview these folks and share their stories.
Environment (ESE) in which horses are instrumental in the healing of human needs. Her success is focused on her ability to intuitively connect with the horses, and empathically connect with each participant of the various programs to heal mental and psychological trauma.
HEALING SERVICES OFFERED ARE: Retreats; Meditative Grounding; Reflexology; Yoga; Aroma Therapy; Saging; Restorative Yoga; Mindfulness, and a variety of workshops.
TOPICS ADDRESSED
• Team Building
• Grief & Loss (i.e. family, work) • Anxiety, Panic Attacks • Depression & Emotional Pain • Eating Disorders • Anger Management • PTSD
Chris and I spent time with Irene from Hurley's Mattress and Appliance store in Tillsonburg, the location of the shoot, and set up our timetable. You have to understand when you work with Mary you have to prepare for anything and everything, which in this case was an exciting adventure!
• Unhealthy Behaviours and Addictions
I think in total that day, we shot about 15 different interviews in front of the camera; it was an excellent learning experience. Before each recording, I had the opportunity to talk with the presenter. Their stories were inspiring and insightful, full of facts and advice to help others and like I said earlier, they all had a connection to Mary and the stables. For those that perhaps don't know about Sonflower Stables here is a small overview from Mary's website. The program is an Equine Supported
• Family Mediation Restoration
• Blind & Deaf Support • Suicidal Ideation & Prevention • Speech Impediment • Home Schooling Programs We offer Private In-House Professional Group Sessions and Workshops for financial institutions, veterinarians, dental associates, social workers, first respondents, and Veterans. Check out the website at www.sonflowerstables.com for more information and the Community of Healing video series.
144 Queensway East Simcoe • 519-426-3010 • DemeyereChrysler.com